The 2006 BMW 325Xi Sport Wagon is based on the current-generation E90 3-Series sedan that debuted early in 2005, the wagon offers the extra space and versatility of that body style - and the all-wheel drive all-weather traction associated with SUVs.

The wagon and the all-wheel drive models of both the 325 and 330 sedans are mid model-year additions to the E90 lineup. As with the existing rear-wheel drive sedans, 325 and 330 models share basic 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine architecture, but the 330 gets hardware and software upgrades for additional power.

Still, the 325's 215 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque best the previous 2.5-liter 325 engine's 184 hp and 175 lb-ft, and a choice of six-speed transmissions in manual or automatic ensure that power gets to the ground efficiently and moves the car quickly. The xDrive all-wheel drive system, derived from the system used in BMW's X5 and X3 ``Sport Activity Vehicle'' crossovers, does add weight, but it also adds traction in wet or dry conditions. The 325 wagon comes only in all-wheel drive form.